Run a program called Belarc Advisor - this will identify hardware and software loaded on your computer.
Good idea to run this program before you send your computer for upgrade - then you can compare the two lists before and after.
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General discussion
Don't get ripped off when your PC is out for repair or upgrade
My question is: When you send your computer off to a local or even big brand store to be upgraded, how do you know the items you chose (like new graphics cards, RAM, motherboards, etc...) were installed, instead of an inferior product? Also, how can you tell that your existing hardware are still the original and not swapped out by cheaper or different hardware, once it is returned from the shop for repair/upgrade? Is there something that I can do to make sure I don't get ripped off?
Submitted by John K.
Answer voted most helpful by our members
Take an inventory...
For the most part you can't ensure the correct components are present just by looking inside the case since so many different makes and models look alike. In addition, not all components have labels on them with the proper identification. Thus, the best approach is to take an inventory using a program such as Everest, which is freeware. It will analyze your PC, recording almost every component installed, along with the make, model, specs, and serial number, if applicable. Specifically, it will take care of the motherboard, processor, RAM, optical drives, hard drives, disk drives, graphics and sounds cards, and networking adapters. It will also note your keyboard, mouse, and monitor, just in case you're packing them up as well.
To get the ball rolling, install and launch Everest, then click the Report button along the top or go Report->Report Wizard. The "System Summary" should suffice, though you can choose to receive a full report if you prefer. Depending on which report type you choose the report could be quite long, so you may want to save the file to a flash drive instead of printing it.
Note, however, that this inventory is not quite comprehensive, for not all components are capable of reporting themselves via software. These items include the power supply (PSU), fans, and the case itself. The latter should be easy to identify and the fans are of little consequence unless you purchased high-quality parts, leaving you with the PSU. If you peek inside your case you should find it in the top back region of the case with a large label stating the brand, model number, and wattage. Write those down for later references.
Once you receive your computer back from the repair shop, you can repeat this process, comparing the initial report to the new one. Any components you had them install should be properly identified on the new report, while the rest should match the old. If there is a discrepancy chances are something's not kosher.
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Some other things to keep in mind:
* If there is a software issue the repair shop may reinstall Windows without your permission, wiping out all of your personal files. Thus, it's always a good idea to backup what you can't afford to lose first.
* Likewise, if there are any personal/private files you don't want them to happen across, you may want to move them to a flash drive or other form of removable storage before boxing it up. They could still drudge it up off the hard drive, but it's a little added precaution.
* Always request a written work order before they perform any work on your computer, clearly stating what they will do and what they will charge. In addition, always request a receipt upon completion, stating what work was performed, what parts were added/replaced, how much was charged, and what warranties are given.
* If you are paying for the work to be done, as opposed to having it covered under a warranty, request that the old parts, if any, be returned to you. They are yours and you can always use or sell them later. In addition, if it turns out they replaced a supposedly defective part when it was indeed functional (some will report false problems just for the business) you can request a refund for the purchased part, though not necessarily the cost of labor.
* Be aware that some repair shops will try to 'do you a favor' by installing their own copy of Windows instead of your own or the one you purchased. This almost always results in licensing issues with Microsoft reporting your copy is invalid. Never be talked into such situations and be sure to call Microsoft's toll-free hotline if Windows suddenly begins telling you your copy is pirated afterwards.
And remember, even reputable repair shops, such as Best Buy's Geek Squad, have been known to perform shady practices, so never assume it'll be alright. A little caution can go a long way, particularly with an investment such as a computer.
Hope this helps,
John
Submitted by John.Wilkinson
If you have any additional advice or recommendations for John, let's hear them. Click on the "Reply" link to post. Please be detailed as possible in your answer and list all options available. Please do not assume John knows how to open his computer case. Thanks!
Discussion is locked
121 - 150 of 172 Posts
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I had said in a pervious post that, the computer companies can not void a warranty because a person cracked the case open to change a board or strip of memory and such. I used the example of switching out a factory installed stereo radio of a vehicle for a better one and having the vehicle company telling you that you have just voided the whole warranty on a brand new vehicle. They can not do that. It is just the company will not cover the new stereo radio. Anyway below is the reference:
FTC Magnuson-Moss Act of 1976
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/warranty.shtm
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This being my second computer... I have kept track of everything, and being that I used it every day, I knew immediately if something wasnt working correctly. Constant exposure to your computer and a good sound knowledge of how to fix things yourself, as most people will tell you, will alert you immediately when something is not working as it should.
In anycase.. I decided to upgrade to a larger hard drive... and it never even crossed my mind that Best Buy wouldn't do anything but have it done perfectly.. In fact I was going to do it myself but I decided to pay to have them do it so that it would be done right. Well a week after they installed it, I knew something wasn't right with the computer, so I took it back to them. As it turns out, they cooked the processor by overclocking it. My computer was 2 years old but still very current (P4 2.8Ghz processor, with 1 GB RAM and an ATI Radeon video card X800? Worked VERY nicely) They obviously didnt realize that I knew much about computers, and seeing what excellent shape my computer was in when it was brought in, they took it upon themselves to overclock it which pretty much shortened the life of the processor from what would have been indefinite to about a week. So forget "swapping out components"... You basically have to remember that these guys are a business and they want you to get your new computer every year or two... They obviously thought I didnt know as much about the computer as I ddi.. but I NEVER would have thought that BEST BUY would stoop to such low standards.. But they did and they do.. Being that I never expected this.. I didnt take any precautions.. and as it turns out, I had to buy a new computer. I ended up getting a better one.. but still the old one would have worked indefinitely (with my computer knowledge) had I not let the "geek squad" get their hands on it. Case in point? Do not let anyone touch your computer.. unless its someone like the guy that posted above, who runs his own little shop. These big companies, as well as most of the smaller ones will tell you that parts and components "wear out" till their little geek squad tie falls off... but the truth is that if you know how to take care of your computer and you don't abuse it, they will last indefinitely.
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Hi John K.
The best way i find of finding that the equipment i want installed is installed and nothing is taken out is to do a system check.
I am running Windows Vista Basic so these are the steps to follow from whar i can remember Windows XP was very similar.
Done by these steps.
Start, Settings, Control pannel, System, Device manager. View devices by type.
From here you can open each item for a discription and info on all the items that are in your computer.
To make sure you get what you want and nothing is removed without you knowing simply take a note of what you have and compare it with what you have when you get it back.
It works for me.
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GO TO CONTROL PANEL UNDER SYSTEM INFO.FIND OUT WHAT IS INSTALLED BEFORE SENDING COMPUTER OUT,THEN CHECK AFTER,IF THEY HAVE SWAPPED FOR DIFFERENT BRAND, IT SHOULD SHOW AS SUCH...... CARL S.
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Yours is probably not the latest, hotest, and greatest box if you are having it upgraded. The sad fact is that a box that is ready for an upgrade has probably not got the latest and greatest components, and is therefore not worth stealing from.
My advice: fa gead aboud it. (I'm sorry but the censors er, 'filters', wouldn't let me do Tony Soprano.)
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This question has an easy answer. Install Belarc Advisor from here
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html Run the program and print out the result before taking your computer to your Computer Shop. Tell the Computer shop what you have done and show him the print out. Keep this original printout and then run the program after he has worked on your computer. Compare the two printouts and note any unauthorised changes.
This keeps your Computer shop honest, but also gives you a record of serial numbers of both hardware and software. Many computer shops like to see a Belarc print out as they then know exactly what is inside your computer and it helps them diagnose any problems. This will allay any worries you have.
Colo39
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Hi John,
I'm a 62+ grey-haired computer buff and when I started 18 years ago in the days of DOS, I didn't even know where the on/off switch was!
The only certain way to ensure that you're not ripped off these days is to have a knowledgeable pal do your upgrade or like myself,find time to do an evening course at your local collage for a few weeks and read lots and lots of books on the subject. Also, scrounge any old computer unit from anyone or your local council dump, and take it apart and learn what goes where.
I know that this is not very helpful but it's the only sure way to ensure that you get what you've paid for.
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John,
I find that with my clients we give them the BOX thier hardware came is as most upgrade hardware comes in a box of some type. This box should contain driver cds and manuals and possibly even your old replaced hardware. To verify this matches the hardware that is in you pc a simple application called Belarc Advisor (It is a Free Download) can verify the hardware that is in your pc. It will also tell you what patches you are missing. With some simple follow up after the visit you can protect yourself from being ripped off.
Thanks - Tom Fronza
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Have the facility download and run www.belarc.com and it will show all components, software installed, etc.
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Try a good system identifaction software such as Belarc Advisor. It gives not only hardware info but also checks security (Windows updates) and licenses. It can be helpful to print a hardcopy for referance
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Other than opening your computer and examining each periperial you can use a program such as the Belarc Advisor to give you a detailed listing of video cards, sound cards, and other installed equipment. Do a before and after scan to determine if you got what you paid for.
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If I were you and concerned about the integrity of your system after it had been upgraded by a company or service that you're skeptical of, There are three ways that you can check the before and after configuration of your computer: 1) If you still have the original manifest that came with the computer when you originally purchased it, you should have a sheet with the specifications of the computer, including all installed hardware. 2) If you don't have the specifications sheet, and assuming that you're running a Windows OS, you can open up the hardware configuration utility on your computer by right clicking on My Computer, selecting properties, selecting the hardware tab, and then clicking on device manager. This utility has a list of all of the hardware components and their respective software information. You can then make a note of what you have installed on your system. Last but not least, you may opt to physically open the computer chassis by yourself or by a tech-savvy friend that you trust, and make note of the internal components.
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Short of opening your computer to inspect the hardware, which may invalidate any warranty on upgrades/repairs, avail yourself of the free software diagnostic and benchmarking utilities to reliably check installed hardware as well as software.
Two very useful utilities are SiSoft Sandra and Belarc Advisor available free for personal use at www.overclockers.com.au and www.belarc.com respectively. Simply download,run and keep a copy of the detailed reports for comparison.
Other utilities which may assist are Fresh diagnose (www.freshdevices.com)and Karen's computer Profiler (www.karenware.com)- Sandra and Belarc however are intuitively user friendly,accurate,comprehensive and not too Geeky.
I suggest too that you request receipt of old parts replaced,with CD's, containers or manuals for new programmes or installed software.
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They can not void the warranty on a part because you opened the case of the computer. It is likened to that of a person that just bought a new vehicle. That person does not like the factory installed stereo and buys and replaces it with a better stereo. The vehicle company can not void the whole warranty on the vehicle because you replaced the factory stereo or if you bought new spark plugs for the engine. But the vehicle company does not have to warranty the stereo replacement or the now replaced spark plugs.
Source: http://www.ftc.gov/
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"From: Bilby23
Subject: CNET Forums Offensive Content
Users Comment: The submission from Bilby23 was placed for the benefit of John K. in good faith. The presumptuous response to Bilby23 in post 101 misreads the "opening of the case" itself voids the warranty, whereas the intention is that by opening the case and tampering with newly installed components MAY incur peripheral damage by eg electrostatic discharge; puncturing or removal of seals or stickers(albeit accidental)
The Law misquoted by the way is U.S.in jurisdiction and has no force here in Australia.
Even though I agree with the statement made, it is misleading, out of context, doesn't help John K. and is tantamount to a "edited word here" personal attack. Please remove it?"
My comment. I think this is a fine example of where you are makes all the difference in the world. It's also not a personal attack.
Bob
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John,
Starting from your desktop, go to all programs, accessories, system tools, system information. Click on it and you will get every single piece of information about your computer (software, hardware,etc.).
Make a copy (print it out). When you get your computer back from the shop make another copy and compare it with the original. You will notice any changes!
Angelo
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John:
First of all you must have trust. I believe, big box stores, whether they are: Circuit City, Best Buy, Frys or Comp USA would not rip you off because they do charge a good fee for their services. I know I use to trust no one, especially auto mechanics since I am from NYC but as I have become older, I am more willing to trust. But, neverless, here is what you can do, if you brought a graphics card or sound card, and sometimes but not always a hard drive go into control panel, click on System and click on
device manager button, usually the device is identified, you will see the company name, hopefully model number and sometimes, what I believe is the serial number. Highlight device, right click on properties and you can see the driver, which usually has the drivers date listed. The final thing you can do when you do not get enough information from device manager is to open the box and do your "visual inspection.". I am sure there are other things you can do but I am a novice, just like you.
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There are no foolproof solutions but here are some suggestions that you could try.
You can ask to be present when the components are installed. If all you are adding is one hard drive or a few sticks of RAM, it's my experience that they generally wouldn't not object (and I would really be concerned if they did).
Get acquainted with your machine. Look inside the case. If you fear problems take photos before and after. Research the components you have selected, find online pictures that you could use as references. You can also use a diagnostic software to check out the specifications. I recommend SiSoftware Sandra Lite
http://www.sisoftware.net
http://www.sisoftware.co.uk/index.html?dir=dload&location=sware_dl_3264
Depending on the store, you could also ask to inspect the machine before leaving the shop. Nice salespeople/repairmen will also take the time to answer your questions about the hardware that was sold to you. Perhaps it might be best to inquire if this is even an option before entrusting your computer to them.
Otherwise, you can always take the new hardware home with you and install it yourself. Ask a friend to help you out with the details. It is generally not only the easiest and safest solution but you'll also have the chance to learn from the experience.
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I have never really thought about the possibility of someone swapping out some of your existing parts or not giving you the ones that you actually ordered, but I guess it could happen. For peace of mind, simply take an inventory of what you have installed in your computer before sending it out for service. There are several ways to get this information:
1. DEVICE MANAGER - Look though your Device Manager by RIGHT Clicking on MY COMPUTER > Click on PROPERTIES > Select the HARDWARE tab > Click on DEVICE MANAGER and click on the ?+? beside each component and write down the Information.
2. SYSTEM INFORMATION - You could also access System Information by Clicking on START > ALL PROGRAMS > ACCESSORIES > SYSTEM TOOLS > SYSTEM INFORMATION and then Click on COMPONENTS to view what items are installed in your computer.
3. SOFTWARE - There are also many available programs like Belarc Advisor that will give you a complete print out of all the hardware and software currently installed in your computer.
4. PHYSICAL INVENTORY ? You could open the case and physically check the part numbers of all the components. However, if you were willing and able to do this, you would probably be performing upgrades and repairs yourself.
NOTE: Before you send your computer out for any service or upgrade, make sure you have backed up your data, requested the return of damaged or defective parts and read and understand any and all service contracts.
Dana
Wayland Computer
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When you have work or a repair performed on an Automobile or a home appliance like a washing machine or dryer and a P.C., it's always wise to request the old part be put into the new box from the relacement part that is being installed for you to take it home or to throw out! By going to my computer and clicking on properties you will be able to get the ID or Key codes of your installed software. When you pick up the system check the ID or Key Codes to make sure that they are correct? If not, while your in the store get out your cell and call Microsoft in front of the manager or sales manager and I can assure you that they will correct the problem on the spot! If MS gets involved because of fraud the store will go out of business and they don't need problems with MS.
Harvey7
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my anwser would be That when you take it in watch them work like taking your car in for repairs if they say we cant do it now i say call me when you can and ill bring it back or take it eleswhere and that way you can see them Rip You Off And kick The Tires TOO!!and you never know You might learn something so you dont haft to take it back. see We can even teach old dogs :+}
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I did not see in the replies that just like it is preferably to make & maintianing an inventory of your PC before hand & backing up your data - that you should protect any personnal & sensitive data before hand, in case you do not have the chance before submitting a PC for an unscheduled repair. If during repair, upgrade or replacement [in lieu of repair] your HD is accessed or replaced, it is preferable that you password protect & encrypt any personnal & sensitive data [or if option is available after data backup to 'shred' {write '1's & '0's several times over} the old personnal & sensitive data - see download.com for freeware that can perform this.]. As an example my Form Filler software [also inserts my web site user names & passwords] personnal data file is password protected & encrypted. Another program that I maintain a copy of software install user names, passwords & keys - the data file is not only password protected & encrypted' but, is on/in an external drive media [e.g. CD-R, Floppy, HD, etc.]; so, even if my PC w/internal HD goes in for repair/upgrade this data isn't there! So it can not be compromised.
Second, another item is that, if it is not the HD that has gone bad, even if the PC will not 'boot', you can remove the HD & install it as a slave in another PC & recover the data off it. I have done this several times for myself & friends before sending a PC in for repair. {But be aware of/check for potential vilolation problems if PC is under warranty.}
Third, if technican/shop replaces, upgrades or installs new software, not only do you want the installation CDs; but, probably those CDs are out of date - so, check the hardware/software manufacturer's website to see if more current software patches, drivers & updates are available to download & install to bring your PC back up to date.
[NOTE: This maybe true even if tech/shop only reinstalled existing software from install CDs - like reinstalling OS, e.g. WinXP, does it have all the Service Packs & post latest Service Pack patches & updates?]
Forth, is difference in easy of removal/replacement of components in Desktop versus Laptops. Relatively Destops are very standard with interchangable components & connections & mountings that are relatively accessable & easy to remove & replace. Laptops on the other hand can be like a 'Swiss Watch' & if you open it up things may pop-out! In most cases you want to be very experienced & confident before you attempt to replace anything inside a laptop by your self [Again remember to check for & consider the impact of Warranty violations!].
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The reason that "the possibility of someone swapping out some of your existing parts..." never occurred to you Dana, is that you are obviously among the honest and legitimate computer repair people that ARE out here. In addition to your suggestions, I would look for:
1. a personal reference from someone who has used this company
2. any certifications this company may have
3. How long have they been in business?
4. Will they back up your data FIRST? (like a lot of us do)
5. Will they confer with you with respect to what hardware upgrade you are seeking, and discuss all the options?
Will they be willing to return your old parts if you want them?
6. Will they put an ID label on your machine when you FIRST bring it in? Even so, WRITE your name and phone # on the bottom of the case somewhere with a magic marker.
It can be a scary thing to have to send your computer out for repair/upgrade. And even if you take all the precautions possible, the bottom line these days, in most cases, is the preservation of your data. Learn how to back it up if you don't know how.
My own child works at a big box store and brought her laptop in to increase the memory- a supposed no brainer.
She told me afterwards and so I insisted on checking everything out. Why they had to turn off System Restore is beyond me. Why they had to change anything having to do with software she had installed is a question that can never be answered.
Moral: Even ask the chain stores these same questions. And Back up, Back up, Back up!
On the flip side, if a customer brings in a machine with notable damage, document it with photos, and have the customer sign something to attest to the fact that they are aware of the problem.
I recently opened a case of a relatively new machine and found swollen encrusted capacitors. Photographed it immediately and informed the customer so he could make an informed decision as to what he wanted to do in light of this serious condition.
Be an informed consumer so that when you do need to hire someone to service your computer, you can assure yourself that you left it in good hands.
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I bought my PC from a local IT business and everything was fine for about 6 months until Windows online detected that I had a pirate version of Windows XP. I had to pay
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Software is a different story. If you are purchasing and having software installed by a service shop, make sure you are given all the original installation CD's. When you get the computer back, go into each program that you purchased and register it with the manufacturer.
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TiaLia, the answer is simple. When you buy a new PC ,ask the store if the price include OS softwARE, OR NOT. If the operating system price including to PC price then demand the CD of the O.S. (windows,linux,or whatever O.S. you choosed),bringto you with it's serial number and it's guide. You pay for it, you must have it.
Sometimes though stores install the so call OEM version of the software (original equipment manufactureres) cause is cheaper, but OEM in no way mean it's pirate. OEM means a single licence for every new PC. For example a store pay for 10 licences of software,but just one copy of it, so it can install it to 10 new PCS.
In this case though you can have a copy, and every problem you have with software, or for any support you must call the store you bought the PC and not the company made the software.
So the best way is to ask if software included in the PC price, or not. If included then you demand the CD of softwarfe and serial number,as you pay for it. If not then you buy the software you want.
George
P.S. Where "software" above you can put windows in your case.
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Backup everything.
Keep serial no list of components and a digital photo if possible.
That's it!
Nick
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Personally there is noway i would ever consider sending my computer in to anyone to work on. granted some of the new systems try to make it complicated just to get to the hardware inside the box , but once there i have always found it to be very simple and basic to upgrade/change out every part on it including the motherboard itself. you mite want to get all the information from the internet that you can on your particular mobo before you do that but as far as ram and or hard drives or sound cards or graphic cards modems etcetc , cd roms floppy drives,, its all really easy to do yourself, after you get into the box which can take up to a half hour it usually will only take you 5 minutes to install or exchange whatever part your upgrading, theres noway i will ever send any of my computers in to be worked on and i cant see any reason anyone should have to in my humble opinion.
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This is a hard question. i work part time in a computer shop and people are bringing me computers all the time and we put in inferior parts as requested by people. most of the time these parts work as good as the proper part. there are a few ways to fix, stop or identify when this happens. the first one is to ask a friend or a computer techninian where you work if they can install a part if you go out and buy it. maybe you might get a percent off. the second is if you print out or request a copy from the technician(if the computer still boots up) the system information sheet. this can be found by START>PROGRAMS/ALL PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>SYSTEM TOOLS>SYSTEM INFORMATION. then if you know what part you are getting, you can access this page after the installation to see if the part is still the same or has been replaced with a different part than you requested. the last way and the most easiest is to either take photos of all the parts inside the computer.(requires some taking apart of the computer, do it if you know what your doing or get a smarter person that knows what they are doing. also can ruin warranty) and then write down everything or just have a look at what the computer was built originally with and compare it with what is in the case now. this sheet is usually on the computers shop website or on the side of the motherboard box if you got one. sorry it is a bit over the place but i hope this helps.
Joshua Welch
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